Always interested in the artwork that packages the music, I have collected some record covers I particularly liked in the first half of 2010. These are not necessarily records I listen to or write about, in fact I’ve included some I’m not even familiar with, stuff I came across through newsletters and some other websites. Most of them came out this year, with some exceptions from 2009.

As you can see, I’m fully backing current trends like triangles, pattern-based designs or symmetric compositions.

The second EP by Africa Hitech, the collaboration between Mark Pritchard and Steve Spacek, is set for a release in late June. Warp has just posted first previews on their website.

“Keeping the pressure on after the digital dancehall minimalism of Blen – which drew frenzied comparisons to everyone from Wiley to Basic Channel and Vybz Kartel – this new 6-track bomb will rattle more than a few rooftop aerials.”

Here’s a look at the tracklist:01. How Does It Make U Feel
02. Said Speed
03. Lash Out
04. Boingy
05. One Two
06. One Two (Instrumental)

Like the cover of Blen, the beautiful artwork was created by Andy Gilmore. Hitecherous will be out on 2×12-inch and digital release, both can be pre-ordered from Bleep.